Strategies for School Success

Children with ADHD are often viewed as difficult. Their fidgeting, squirming, and loud behaviors can be very disruptive to the classroom setting. Children with ADHD often seem oppositional when they are not following directions due to their inattention. Their distractibility, blurting out, interrupting others, and getting up and down out of their seats may create frustration for the teacher and other classmates.

Luckily, there are strategies that can be implemented in the classroom to make the day easier for all involved, the student with ADHD, his classmates, and the teacher.

• Establish Specific Classroom Rules

  Have clear and consistent classroom rules. Set up a reward system. Consistently enforce consequences for behaviors.

• Limit Distractions

  Try to limit distractions in the classroom. Seat the student near the teacher. Have student keep his desk area cleared except for the work he should be doing at that time. Get rid of clutter in the classroom.

• Give Simple Directions

  Directions with more than one or two steps may be confusing. Stick with clear one step directions. To make sure student understands directions have him repeat them back.

• Adjust School Work

  Break down assignments to fit with student’s attention span. Give student extra time to complete work. Write things down for student who may have difficulty copying material from chalk/dry erase board.

• Positively Structure the School Day

  Preview the school day with a morning class meeting. Work on the most difficult subjects during the early part of the school day when student is more alert. Allow student extra breaks during the day.

• Focus on Student’s Strengths

  Provide lots of positive reinforcement and praise. Reward effort.

• Keep Lines of Communication Open with Parent

  Set up a system to communicate with parent. Send a quick email. Touch base by phone or note. The better the communication is between school and home, the better chance the student will have for success.

ADHD: A Complete and Authoritative Guide (American Academy of Pediatrics 2004)

Russell A. Barkley, PhD Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents (Guildford Press 2005)

_{Photo © Pam Roth}

Related Reading:

• Helping Your ADHD Child Develop Positive Peer Relationships
• Nurturing Your Child's Strengths
• Channeling That Energy
• Tips for Maintaining a Scream-Free Home
• Improving Communication with Your Child
• ADHD and Nutrition